Located in southwestern Poland's Lower Silesian region, this industrial city sits near the Czech border. Its landmarks include the medieval Książ Castle and mountain railways.
Wałbrzych sits in southwestern Poland's Sudeten foothills. Walk through the grand halls of Książ Castle, descend into former coal mine tunnels at the Old Mine Science Center, or climb the spiral observation tower on Mount Borowa. The city's Palm House maintains a warm tropical environment where banana trees grow alongside coffee plants and orchids.
Visiting Książ Castle
Built in the 13th century, Książ Castle spans multiple levels with 415 rooms. Walk through chambers filled with period furniture from the 1700s, and examine the detailed Baroque ceiling frescoes in the Maximilian Hall. During World War II, Nazi forces turned parts of the castle into tunnels and bunkers - now open for guided tours. The castle's walls show its evolution: medieval Gothic stones at the base, ornate Baroque facades above, and early 1900s additions on top.
Exploring the Old Mine Science Center
The Old Mine (Stara Kopalnia) preserves the former Julia coal mine's industrial buildings. Walk through the blacksmith's workshop where tools were forged, see the massive steam-powered hoisting machines, and descend into the mine tunnels. Guides explain mining techniques used from the 1800s until the mine's closure in 1996. Many guides are former miners who share personal stories about working underground.
Climbing the Mountain Peaks
Climb the 16.5-meter spiral tower on Mount Borowa (853 meters) for views across the Sudeten mountains. The observation platform points out visible peaks and valleys. On Mount Chełmiec, a 45-meter steel cross marks the summit, alongside two broadcasting masts. A marked trail leads from the base to the top, taking about 2 hours to complete.
Relaxing in City Parks
King Jan III Sobieski Park contains wide gravel paths and wooden benches near the red-roofed PTTK Harcówka mountain shelter. Inside the Palm House, temperatures stay at 25°C, supporting 80 species of tropical plants including banana trees, birds of paradise flowers, and coffee plants. Connected walking paths lead through all seven city parks, with signs marking the routes between them.
Transportation and Access
Trains connect Wałbrzych to Wrocław every two hours (1 hour 20 minutes journey) and run several times daily to Kłodzko. City buses 5 and 8 stop at the castle, while bus 12 serves the Old Mine. From Wrocław, take the A4 highway and exit onto national road No.35. Wrocław Airport lies 70 kilometers north, with regular flights to major European cities. Świebodzice airfield, 10 kilometers away, handles private planes.
